Hughes Landing Market Report January 2025

Saying that we are now in the year 2025 feels a little unbelievable. It might be cliche, but boy does time go by fast!

Speaking from a historical perspective, January typially tends to be a little on the slow side in real estate. People are coming down off the busyness of the holiday season, outlining goals and plans for the year, and re-setting any bad habits that they might have taken up in the previous year. In other words, it seems that for many folks, January typically has their attention diverted temporarily away from real estate.

Sellers: knowing that there tend to be fewer sales in January means that you have an opportunity to really shine if you prepare, position, and price your property right. Since there are fewer sales, it means you will need to be razor sharp in your execution of marketing your listing. If you do this, you stand the chance of being the premier available property for the buyers that are out there. This might mean taking a quick review of your home's presentation and perhaps making a few adjustments in an effort to beat out the competion and be on the list of sold properties in January!

Buyers: Knowing that sales are typically slower in January, means that you have a fantastic opportunity right now. If sellers have been on the market since before the holidays and are not getting as many showings and offers as they'd like, then you probably have a good chance of being able to negotiate favorable terms for your home purchase! The more buyers that enter the market, and the more activity that sellers get on their homes, the less negotiating power you will have in your pocket. That being said, don't delay! If you wait, you just might miss the chance to get your best deal.

Experts in finance, economics, mortgages, and real estate are predicting that interest rates will not go down much this year. We are not expecting to see numbers in the 5% range even by the end of the year. While it might not feel comfortable to accept that a mid to high 6% rate might be what's available, it is refreshing to consider that we might at least see less volatility in rates this year. Home prices will continue to rise though, so please consider the cost of waiting to buy later.

In addition to current market data for The Woodlands and surrounding areas, I've included some historical data for the past five years in The Woodlands so you can see recurring trends in inventory, sales, and activity.

I'm always ready to be a resource and I'd love to partner with you (or your friends and family!) as you prepare for your next real estate move!

Best wishes to you and yours!